Exercising question

I was just curious how long before others felt like doing more strenuous exercised such as crunches? I'm only 2 wks post-op and walk over a mile virtually everyday but, I do want to eliminate as much of a stomach that just hangs. So, how long before you felt healed enough to do so? 6-8 wks?

Im almost 4 weeks post-op and Im still not ready for crunches Im listening to my body when it feels right, I start. Everyone is different so my advice is Listen to your body!

Listen to your doctor and your body, I sometimes get fatiqued in the afternoon even at 5 weeks out.  I do exercise pretty hard on the elipitcal trainer three or four times a week for 30 mintues and have been for the last 2 weeks.  Walking is good find ways to increase your activity level and listen to how your body responds.  I always take it to fast, hurt myself and then back off for two months until my hurt goes away.  This time, I'm taking it slow. 

Yes, I definitely don't want to set myself back. I was just curious to know about how long it has taken some of us here on OH. Thanks for your response!

I'm not even trying any resistance stuff till after I see the doc on Wed.

I'm 11 weeks out and haven't done crunches yet.  The doctor said I was free to do whatever I wanted including crunches and weights at my 6 week appointment.  I was off due to his vacation.

The only reason I haven't yet is because I'm still doing the exercises that help strengthen your core and back.

I got cleared for Pilates at 5-1/2 weeks.  I think that was a little early, and possibly because the doc didn't know enough about Pilates.  It's a lot of crunchy ab work.  I started back with a private class, but I could handle everything she had me do, and I had my first group class 6 weeks after surgery. 

I have been doing Pilates for 3 years, and I am afraid it won't help the stomach that just hangs.  Underneath, you will have abs of steel, but on top the skin will still just hang.  At least, that's my experience.

First you are doing great just 2 weeks out, Follow your Doctor's recommendations first. Then listen to your body. Everybody is different. I was ice skating at 3 weeks. But 6 weeks for any Resistance type exercise. I however walked almost every day. Take your time, your body has gone through a lot of changes and it takes time.

Keep up the good work,

Chuck